A Non-Lawyer's Guide to NYC Courts
New York City has one of the most complex court systems in the United States. If you have a legal problem, knowing which court handles it is the first step. Here's a plain-language breakdown.
State vs. Federal Courts
Most everyday legal problems — landlord disputes, accidents, divorce, small claims — are handled in New York State courts. Federal courts handle federal law violations and disputes between citizens of different states above $75,000.
Civil Court (Claims Under $25,000)
Civil Court of the City of New York handles:
- Money disputes up to $25,000
- Landlord-tenant cases (the Housing Part is a division of Civil Court)
- Small claims up to $10,000 — you can represent yourself
Supreme Court (Major Civil and Felony Cases)
Don't be fooled by the name — New York's Supreme Court is a trial court. It handles:
- Civil cases over $25,000 (personal injury, divorce, real estate)
- Felony criminal trials
Every county has its own Supreme Court (e.g., New York County Supreme Court in Manhattan).
Family Court
Handles matters involving families and children:
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Orders of protection (domestic violence)
- Juvenile delinquency
- Adoption and foster care
Housing Court
The Housing Part of Civil Court handles nearly all landlord-tenant disputes in NYC, including eviction proceedings, nonpayment cases, and habitability complaints.
Finding the Right Court
| Situation | Court |
|---|---|
| Security deposit < $10,000 | Civil Court — Small Claims |
| Landlord is evicting you | Housing Court |
| Car accident injury lawsuit | Supreme Court |
| Divorce | Supreme Court |
| Child custody | Family Court |
| Order of protection | Family Court |
| Misdemeanor arrest | Criminal Court |
Getting Free Legal Help
- NYC Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: 212-626-7373
- Legal Aid Society: legalaidnyc.org
- New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG): nylag.org
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.